I used to walk in the burnt up Harlem of the ’80s, and I’d look at brownstones that were dilapidated or apartment buildings, thinking ‘Whoever designed this and built this did not want it to look like this.’ So, I used to visualize one day being able to contribute and build in Harlem.

In the first paragraph, Malik Yoba reflects on his experiences walking through Harlem during the 1980s when many buildings were dilapidated and neglected. He expresses a sense of disappointment and loss as he observes structures that clearly once had potential but now lay in disrepair.

The second paragraph delves deeper into the quote’s meaning, revealing it to be more than just an observation about physical decay. Yoba's statement encapsulates a broader sense of hope and aspiration. Despite seeing buildings that no longer reflect their original purpose or beauty, he visualizes himself as someone who can contribute positively by restoring these areas and creating something better. This vision speaks not only to the potential for revitalizing neglected spaces but also to personal ambition and the power of imagination in shaping one's future.

The final paragraph introduces Malik Yoba, an American actor best known for his role as Detective Bobby Mitchell on the long-running television series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." Beyond acting, he is also involved in community activism and development projects aimed at uplifting urban communities like Harlem. His quote reflects not only personal aspirations but a commitment to fostering change through active involvement and creative vision.